Summertime promises a ton of engaging, fun things to do, but it also brings forth a whole host of bothersome insects like mosquitoes. Luckily, natural repellents like essential oils hold the power to keep these nuisances at bay.
For certain species, their one major goal is to make feasts out of your blood. The irritating itching and the annoying buzzing sounds are hard to bear, especially when you're just trying to enjoy some time outside in nature or even a good night's rest. They can get into your home and their tiny bite can even transmit diseases.
While mosquitoes are important to maintain ecosystems (we can't get rid of them all, unfortunately), we can keep them out of our personal space.
Certain essential oils are quite effective and helpful in repelling mosquitoes, and are a natural alternative to the harsh chemicals in commercial bug sprays.
Here we discuss some tips to using essential oils and other natural repellents for mosquitoes and which oils are most effective.
Use of Natural DEET to Repel Mosquitoes
DEET is as effective as any other natural mosquito repellent. It is easily available and has no side effects for most people. But if you have sensitive skin or any other skin problem, then it may be disastrous.
Several studies revealed that DEET has some adverse health impacts on the human body. Some research has found that DEET can even promote the growth of tumors. Other outcomes include rashes, irritation to the skin, burning lips, nausea, and headaches.
It is better to avoid DEET and use other natural mosquito repellent options
Use of Essential Oils to Repel Mosquitoes
Essential oils are safe for humans and still effective in repelling insects. You can use various essential oils without worry. For most, and if properly diluted, they have no adverse health effects and can give you relaxing results immediately. It's essential to research before buying any oil to see if it is suitable for you or not. Allergies and your own personal skin sensitivities should be taken into account.
Try doing a patch test on a small portion of the skin at first. If you feel itching or any other uncomfortable feeling, discontinue use.
The following are some of the best essential oils that you can use to repel mosquitoes.
Citronella essential oil
Lemon Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Lavender essential oil
Peppermint Essential Oil
Catnip Essential Oil
Tea Tree Essential Oil
Clary Sage Essential Oil
All of the oils mentioned above have a particular fragrance, and mosquitoes are repelled to all of these smells. Using such a scent that mosquitoes avoid discourages them from coming close.
Other scents include basil, garlic, rosemary, neem, marigold, etc. It is also important to note that insect repellents use different scents to conceal your body scent.
How To Make Homemade Insect Repellents
You can prepare your natural repellent at home by using the available essential oils and other ingredients. The following are some of the naturally produced repellents that you can make on your own.
Spray
Add an equal amount of vodka and witch hazel. Now add a double quantity of water to this mixture and add up to 100 drops of any available essential oil. Pour the liquid to a spray container, and your repellent is ready to use.
Ointments
For making mosquito repellent ointment, you have to melt down beeswax and coconut oil. Stir the mixture well and let it cool.
Once the liquid cools down, add 10 to 30 drops of essential oil. Blend the mixture well and store it in the refrigerator.
You must store your repellent in a dark blue or amber glass container. Always mix or shake the ingredients before using the repellent.
Personal Aromatherapy Diffusers
MOXĒ aromatherapy diffusers and nasal inhalers are artfully-crafted with their signature organic essential oil blend. All organic ingredients are sourced within the United States and come from premium essential oil companies, meaning you get only the best!
Just look for one that has at least one of the essential oils mentioned above. For example, MOXĒ Dream Diffuser's main ingredient is lavender! Simply take this portable diffuser on your next outdoor adventure and stay mosquito-free
If you're interested in purchasing a high-quality and ready-to-use product then you can visit us at BE MOXĒ.
Conclusion
While we know DEET is an effective repellent against mosquitos, multiple studies have shown DEET to be harmful to humans. This brings many of us to seek clean and natural alternatives to DEET like essential oils. Oils like lavender and peppermint are great for mosquito repellents, and many experts recommend them as they do not appear to cause any know human toxicity after dilution.
Whether applied topically, sprayed, or diffused through a room diffuser, the essential oils highlighted above can make your summer nights worry-free and bug-free.